Interchangeable terms? The terms ‘e-commerce’ and ‘e-business’ are often used interchangeably but what do these words really mean? e-commerce refers to online transactions - buying and selling of goods and/or services over the Internet. e-business covers online transactions, but also extends to all Internet based interactions with business partners, suppliers and customers such as: selling direct to consumers, manufacturers and suppliers; monitoring and exchanging information; auctioning surplus inventory; and collaborative product design. These online interactions are aimed at improving or transforming business processes and efficiency. Potential e-business benefits include: - Improved accuracy, quality and time required for updating and delivering information on products and/or services.
- Access for customers to catalogues and prices - 24 hours x 7 days.
- Improved ease, speed and immediacy of customer ordering.
- Enhanced market, industry or competitor intelligence acquired through information gathering and research activities.
- New distribution channels via the electronic delivery of some products and services, for example, product design collaboration, publications, software, translation services, banking, etc.
- Expansion of customer base and growth in export opportunities.
- Reduces routine administrative tasks (invoices and order records) freeing staff to focus on more strategic activities.
If you are interested in exploring global e-business information further including the latest news, country-assessments, business models then visit these websites: - Ebusiness forum - www.ebusinessforum.com - The Economists website providing information, analysis, research and latest news on the impacts of the Internet for business strategy.
- www.brint.com - a portal for information on e-business, information, technology and knowledge management issues
|